Dr Muhal Richard Abrams has been involved in the jazz scene for over 60 years. A
legendary pianist, Abrams is co-founder of the Chicago based AACM ( Association for the Advancement of Creative Musicians). The AACM is responsible for connecting jazz to youth in communities around the country, by providing access ,safe concert spaces, and mentoring of the next generation of creative musicians. The quintet was Abrams on piano, Jonathan Finlayson on trumpet, Bryan Carrott on vibes, Reggie Nicholson on drums, and John Hebert on bass. The set started with Abrams using mallets on the piano strings, he looked like someone's grandpa checking a distributor cap. He slid back into a solo before yielding to Finlayson then Carrott then Hebert. I have witnessed many icons at this venue: Charles Lloyd, Henry Threadgill, Don Byron, and Anthony Braxton among others. Abrams and the AACM were at the forefront of the free jazz world and it was obvious by his command of piano. I have seen Carrott with the Lounge Lizards and with Dave Holland and the full vibes sound was on full display with the beautiful acoustics of this venue. Hebert is a staple at Firehouse 12 and his bowed and plucked solo sounded like a chainsaw being thrown down a flight of stairs (which I know he'll take as a compliment). The set was two long pieces that focused on solos and improv from each member. Abrams is an icon, and in his 80s, it was a treat to see him share his vision to a crowd of about 300. Sitting in front of me was a crew of students, probably musicians, whose jazz knowledge and reverence that I eavesdropped on, was astounding. It was comforting to hear that a new generation of appreciators is out there and listening.
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